1977 Renault 12 vs. 2002 Opel Signum
To start off, 2002 Opel Signum is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Signum (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1977 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1977 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Signum weights approximately 585 kg more than 1977 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Opel Signum (250 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Renault 12. 2002 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1977 Renault 12 has manual transmission. 1977 Renault 12 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Renault 12 | 2002 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Renault | Opel |
| Model | 12 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 60 L |
